Lights, Camera… Shoot!

By Ingrid Samson

Road trip to a beautiful secluded farm, four gorgeous models, and many talented photographers. These are the main ingredients to the successful, fun-filled Naic Photo Escapade organized by one of the premier photography clubs in the country, the Society of Portrait Photographers of the Philippines (SPPP). Joined by several eager participants, SPPP headed to Lopez Farm in Naic, Cavite, on March 5, 2011. It was just a 1-hour drive from Manila, but seeing the vast expanse of lush green fields, and the relaxing nipa huts in the farm was a welcome delight after the group’s journey.

SPPP is composed of photographers of all shapes and sizes, from all walks of life. They are fortunate to have among them, one of the most sought after make-up artists in the country, Jennifer Flores, who is also the better half of SPPP Vice President Ferdie Flores. Jeng, as Ms. Flores is fondly called, wasted no time and started working on the models while President Orly Mercado delivered a quick orientation of the day’s proceedings. Ibarra Deri, who is one of the founding members of SPPP, gave some tips on using different camera settings and taking effective photos. After this, everyone was divided into four groups.

Never mind the rain, things started to sizzle as the photo shoot kicked off with the sexy models wearing their swimsuits. The much-awaited and always challenging Nude/Bodyscape Photography came next. The models were all very professional, not to mention patient, complying with the photographers’ various requests and instructions, while having to put up with the rain, and on some instances, uninvited six-legged visitors.

There was still much to be done, so after a hearty lunch facilitated by SPPP probationary member James Dy, the groups got the ball rolling again with Glamour, followed by Bridal Photography. The participants had a grand time capturing photos of the girls in stunning dresses and gowns designed by Jazel Sy. As darkness started to fall, everyone had dinner while Ferdie Flores gave a mini lecture on Wedding Photography. He showed an audio-visual presentation of some of his best wedding shots, including the photos of the newly-wed daughter of Ibarra Deri, Dail. As the night wore on, exciting raffle prizes were given away. Everyone was also given a surprise treat, as another SPPP founding member and magician extraordinaire Boy Samson showcased his magical prowess, leaving the participants baffled and very much entertained after a tiring day.

SPPP holds monthly competitions, and the winners for last month’s contest were awarded that night, led by Sonny Kabigting (1^st place) and Ed Banaga (2^nd and 3^rd place). This photo shoot is no different, as participants will also compete in the three categories: Bodyscape, Glamour, and Bridal. Photo entries will be judged during the club’s next meeting. For shutterbugs who are interested in joining SPPP, they meet every first Monday of the month, at F5 Studio in Mandaluyong City.

SPPP thanks their models, Lynyl Tenedero, Mary Catherine Boldo, Angelhaine Noblejas, and Daisy Jane Castor. Special thanks also go to the sponsors who made this event possible, Aperture Trading, Albums & Co., Jazel Sy Fashion Shop, and Abacus Microcomputers.